The study examined the unique cost drivers affecting oilsands turnarounds and uncovered opportunities for cost savings. AP-Canada compared turnaround cost performance in the Athabasca Oilsands region to that of non-oilsands turnarounds throughout Alberta, as well as turnarounds executed in the US Gulf Coast region. In doing so, AP-Canada was able to isolate uncontrollable cost factors and focus on those costs that can be directly addressed and controlled by oilsands owner/operators.

The study confirmed that turnaround costs in the oilsands are among the highest in the oil and gas industry, and qualified the cost gap between the oilsands and other regions. The study additionally examined schedule, safety, environmental, and scope control performance areas, establishing oilsands norms and comparing those with performance figures for non-oilsands Alberta turnarounds and US Gulf Coast turnarounds.

Upon completion, a report analyzing overall results was presented to the sponsors. Each sponsor also received a site specific report examining the site’s cost performance in comparison to group averages and identifying site-specific cost saving opportunities.